(32 Points) Think about the European selections we have read in this Unit. What do they have in common? In at least two fully developed paragraphs, identify two main themes/ideas that seem to be shared by these authors. Support your statement with evidence from at least two texts. Don’t forget to fully explain your evidence.
Grading rubric out of 32 points:
/8 Two Main Themes Identified
/4 Examples from Text 1
/4 Examples from Text 2
/8 Explanation of How the Evidence Identifies the Stated Themes.
/4 Correctly Cited Texts
/4 Grammar and Mechanics
make sure that vocabulary is tenth grader vocabulary
In the European selections we have read in this Unit, two main themes that seem to be shared by these authors are the exploration of societal norms and the examination of human nature.
One text that exemplifies the theme of exploring societal norms is "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant. In this story, the main character, Mathilde Loisel, is unsatisfied with her lower-middle-class life and longs to be part of the upper class. She borrows a beautiful necklace from a friend in an attempt to fit in, but ends up losing it and spends the next ten years in poverty trying to repay the debt. This story highlights the societal expectation that one should conform to their social class and the consequences that can arise when one deviates from it. The evidence for this theme can be found in the following quote: "Women of the people by birth and education, but with women's hearts, would often be carried away by dreams of wealth and luxury." This quote shows how Mathilde is not the only one who desires to break free from societal norms and pursue a different way of life.
Another text that reflects the theme of examining human nature is "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka. The story centers around Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a gigantic insect. As the story progresses, Gregor's physical transformation leads to a deep exploration of his emotional and psychological state. Through Gregor's experiences, Kafka delves into the fundamental aspects of human nature such as isolation, alienation, and the struggle to maintain a sense of identity. This theme is evident in the following quote: "Was he an animal, that music could move him so? He felt as though the way to the unknown nourishment he longed for were being revealed to him." This quote demonstrates how Gregor's transformation forces him to confront his own basic instincts and desires.
Both of these texts exemplify the shared themes of exploring societal norms and examining human nature. In "The Necklace," Maupassant showcases the consequences of striving to break free from societal expectations. In "The Metamorphosis," Kafka delves into the depths of human nature through the physical transformation of the protagonist. Through their exploration of these themes, these authors shed light on the complexities and inner struggles of individuals within their respective societies.